400 S Williams St

The former Washington Park United Church of Christ  is on track to be demolished after selling in February for $2.7 million. The new owner, PLP Holdings LLC, plans to subdivide the 12,500-square-foot lot and build three new single-family homes.

The church dates back to 1918, with expansions in 1927 and 1958, and has long stood as a visual anchor in Wash Park.

The building’s design reflects work by two major Denver architects, Glen Wood Huntington, who led the original Gothic-style structure, and William Muchow, a renowned modernist who gave the church its current mid-century look. Muchow’s remodel even earned a First Honor Award from the Colorado AIA.

City staff found the building potentially eligible for landmark designation, citing its architectural merit, role in civic life, and neighborhood presence. But here’s the key: a formal notice of intent to landmark the church has been submitted, which pauses demolition for now.

If a full landmark application is filed by May 27, the building’s fate will go before the Landmark Preservation Commission and possibly City Council. If no application is submitted, demolition will move forward.

Once described as “a mile from any other church,” the site served the community for over 100 years. But with no current protections, it may soon vanish, replaced by new luxury homes.